Some call it the most indispensable gadget invented by mankind. Others call it a curse. Most of us are somewhere in between; it's handy--when it works. If it doesn't, bring it to a meeting of the Fix-It Club.

How Does It Work?

Components of a hair dryer: heating element, fan motor, and controls.

An electric hair dryer produces an instant blast of hot air, warm, or even cool air to help dry and style hair, yet many models are light enough to be held in one hand so that the air flow can easily be directed. The dryer contains a very long coil of thin wire that develops heat. A jet of air blown by a fan behind the heating element carries this heat through the nozzle and in the direction you choose. If the air flow is obstructed and the air becomes too hot, a thermostat cuts off the power to prevent burning out the motor.

The typical hair dryer includes an on-off switch, a fan-speed switch, a fan and motor, and a heat switch. Larger hood-type dryers work on the same principles with the same key parts, so the same repair instructions apply. Heated styling brushes are essentially the same in function, parts, and repair.

What Can Go Wrong?

Because hair dryers are simple small appliances, few things can go wrong. The electric cord may be faulty, the appliance may not heat, and the fan may not operate. That's about it.

Fix-It Tip

Hair dryers will overheat and the thermostat will turn it off if the vent becomes clogged with hair or dust. Periodically brush or vacuum the grille and filter screen. Also tighten screws occasionally so hair and moisture don't enter the housing.